However, the Guinea international had hoped he could move to Anfield six months earlier with reports of Liverpool offering the Bundesliga side another £13million to release him from the original agreement.

In a statement the club said: " Naby Keita will remain a RB Leipzig player until 30th June 2018.

"We wish to put the speculation about a January move to Livepool to bed."

Sporting director Rangnick added: "We won't allow Liverpool to sign him early, even though they have shown renewed interest to bring him in during this transfer window."

Keita, 22, fuelled speculation he could be about to leave Germany this month when he registered a company in London.

The stylish midfielder who has been accused of dropping performance levels this term recently listed 'NK8 Limited' on the Companies House website.

REDS BLOW Virgil van Dijk set to miss massive clash with thigh injury

He scored the opening goal in Saturday's 3-1 league win against Schlake at the Red Bull Arena with some home fans thinking it was the last timer they will see their star man.

RB Leipzig are second in the Bundesliga and fighting to qualify for the Champions League have stood firm against the Kop who were hoping the early arrival of Keita would boost the second half of the season.